Lucknow (Uttar Pradesh) [India], November 25 : The Uttar Pradesh Congress on Monday raised concerns over the recent violence in Sambhal, accusing the state government of politicising the issue.
Congress President Ajay Rai criticised the administration, describing its actions as part of a larger "politics of hate and oppression."
Rai led a silent protest in front of the Gandhi statue at the party office in Lucknow and announced plans for a Congress delegation, including himself, to visit Sambhal. Speaking to ANI, Rai stated, "The government is trying to politicise the Sambhal incident... Politics of hate and oppression is being carried out in the state... A thorough investigation should be conducted... In the coming days, a Congress delegation, including myself, will visit Sambhal."
Meanwhile, Uttar Pradesh Minister Narendra Kumar Kashyap appealed for calm, saying, "I appeal to the people of Sambhal to maintain peace and uphold law and order in the state."
Samajwadi Party (SP) MP Zia Ur Rehman Barq, accused of inciting violence during a mosque survey in Sambhal, denied the allegations. Barq claimed the charges against him were baseless, asserting he was in Bengaluru attending a meeting of the All India Muslim Personal Law Board at the time of the violence.
Speaking to ANI, Barq said, "The actions carried out by the police administration in Sambhal have shaken humanity and tarnished the state's image. I was not even present in the state. This is a conspiracy by the police administration. They have murdered five innocent people, injured many, and filed false charges. A murder case should be registered against the officers responsible, and they should be arrested."
Moradabad Police Commissioner Aunjaneya Kumar Singh confirmed that an investigation is underway and assured that the situation in Sambhal is now under control. Singh stated, "The situation in Sambhal is peaceful. FIRs have been registered, including one against Sambhal MP Zia Ur Rehman Barq and the son of a local MLA for instigating violence. Four people have died, and the injured are receiving treatment. Strict action will be taken, and if necessary, the NSA will also be imposed."
Sambhal SP Krishna Kumar Bishnoi reported that a complaint had been filed against 800 individuals allegedly involved in the violence. "Fifteen policemen were injured in the incident. So far, 23 people have been arrested, and legal action will follow," Bishnoi stated.
Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak clarified that the mosque survey was conducted under court orders and assured a fair investigation into the violence. "The incident is very unfortunate. A fair investigation will be carried out," Pathak said.
The violence in Sambhal has resulted in four deaths and left several others injured.